Diatomite: what is it, application in industry, agriculture and medicine

Hello! A couple of months ago we had full-fledged women's gatherings. That just did not have time to discuss during this time.

But most of all I remember the story of one woman about diatomite. I had never heard of this product before, but they painted everything in ecstatic colors.

And you know, I tested all the potential properties on myself. I'd really like to clarify now, so I’ll tell you in detail about diatomaceous earth - what it is and the nuances of application. I am sure that many will be surprised by the properties of diatomite.

Nutritional Diatomite: The Benefits of Diatoms to the Human Body

Diatomite, or kieselguhr, is a rock with a high content of organic silicon. Today, an increasing number of people are paying attention to its role in the condition of hair, nails, bones and joints.

This somewhat underestimated element is of considerable importance for the health of the whole organism. Kieselguhr is a good source of silicon. What is the use and is there any harm from its use?

What is it, application

Diatomite is a chalk-like, soft, and friable siliceous rock of organic origin. It is called kieselguhr, celite, mountain flour. The naturally formed mineral sedimentary rock appears as a result of the accumulation of diatom exoskeletons on the ocean floor.

Under a microscope, these shells look like cylindrical tubes of various shapes, with many pores, which have a strongly negative electric charge. Due to this, they have the ability to attract reverse charged molecules.

This property, in turn, makes silicon dioxide often used in body cleansing processes. The high silicon content of diatomite makes it a good source of this scarce element.

Diatomite is used in many industries and agriculture. It is used, in particular, as:

• filter for various drugs. Kieselguhr effectively removes heavy metals from water, which justifies its use in filters for drinking water purification. Due to this, less harmful substances (for example, the same heavy metals) enter our body;
• antiparasitic agent for animals;
• a natural product to protect plants, seeds contained in them from various viruses, to protect them from adverse environmental factors;
• a substance that prevents sticking and removes bad odors;
• insecticidal agent. Diatomite is often used to get rid of insects in homes and farm buildings. Moreover, it is safe for humans and animals.

In connection with the widespread use of kieselguhr, several of its types are distinguished, which differ in the way of industrial processing and storage. Food kieselguhr is used as a dietary supplement, as well as a medicinal substance - we will talk about it later.

Food diatomite: properties, benefits and harm to the body

Adding kieselguhr to the diet can very beneficially affect its quality. The main benefits of eating diatoms include the following effects and properties.

That’s how diatomite works. When such porous tubes pass through the gastrointestinal tract, they are able to effectively absorb all residual nutrients, toxins, and other substances stored in the body.

A single dose of diatomite contains millions of negatively charged shells of diatoms that attract positively charged bacteria, fungi, mold, simple viruses, endotoxins, pesticides, drug residues, and heavy metals. They bind in the cylindrical structure of the shell and are excreted in the feces.

In addition, these cylinders are very hard and have sharp edges. Passing through the walls of the intestine, they delicately "scratch" its walls, sweeping the "debris" out of the body without damaging the mucous membranes and intestinal walls. But at the same time, thanks to the irregular shape, they kill with their protruding edges and larger and more dangerous parasites for humans.

With its widespread use in medicine, scientists have very high expectations, and consumers who have heard about it will probably already use the detoxifying power of kieselguhr.

Improved well-being and easier weight loss. What reviews leave about diatomitis? People who regularly use this natural detoxifier talk about a general improvement in well-being, a halt in the development of certain diseases, increased immunity and a significant improvement in the appearance of skin, hair and nails.

They also note that the use of kieselguhr solves their digestive problems: the body works faster and more efficiently, which means that it’s much easier for them to lose extra pounds.

The beneficial effect that diatomite provides for weight loss is formed by cleansing the digestive tract from deposits of nutrients and toxins. In addition, organs that cleanse the blood (such as the liver) are much less burdened and work better.

Providing the body with silicon, as well as calcium and magnesium with all the ensuing consequences

Kieselguhr benefits not only because of its structure, but also in its high content of highly assimilable silicon (up to 80% by weight), which we all consume too little because it is contained in our food in small quantities or in poorly assimilated forms.

Not the last role in it is played by magnesium and calcium - extremely important minerals for humans. What is the benefit of diatomite due to the presence of all these elements?

Assign it for post-traumatic and postoperative recovery - to speed up the process. Like silicon (as a component of bones and cartilage), it helps repair their damage.

The effect of silicon on the skeletal system, however, does not end with the correction of the shortcomings of its “structural elements”. This substance also acts as an anesthetic - it reduces any joint pain, back pain and discomfort that occurs with gout.

Affects proper heart function. Kieselguhr can be useful in leveling the lipid profile of the blood, significantly contributing to an increase in the level of “good” cholesterol and lowering the level of triglycerides.

Affects the circulatory system. Diatomite intake regulates blood pressure, prevents diseases of this system.

Promotes healthy skin, hair and nails. Silicon is responsible for the condition of hair and nails, contributes to the treatment of inflammatory processes of the skin, acne, accelerates the regeneration of the epidermis, participates in the synthesis of collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid.

Other “Talents” of Mountain Flour

Regular use of diatomite can not only inhibit the development of hepatitis, diabetes, coronary artery disease and cancer, but also restore the damage caused by them.

Skin diseases are not a problem for diatomitis either. He copes well, in particular, with psoriasis, itching, abscess, boils, acne, ulcers, burns, frostbite and various types of rashes and skin lesions.

Diatomite, according to consumers who have problems with insomnia, is struggling with it, which is very important, because too short a sleep disrupts the functioning of the whole organism.

Prevents and treats diseases of the gums and teeth, in particular caries.
Kieselguhr also promotes the absorption of vitamins and minerals. Thus, the benefit of diatomite is that its regular use allows you to maintain health and vitality.

Also important:

How to use infusoria?

Diatomite can be purchased in the form of a white powder resembling flour (not for nothing it is called mountain flour). Its price depending on the manufacturer may vary, however, as a rule, it remains affordable.

Diatomite, which we intend to acquire for internal use, must have food status!

The dosage depends on individual needs, however, a gradual increase in quantity is recommended. It is worth watching the reaction of your body to this drug.

If you have flu-like symptoms, it may mean that the body clears too quickly and abruptly. In this case, a significant dose reduction is recommended, and after a while - its gradual increase.

The required portion of kieselguhr powder should be dissolved in water or another liquid. Thus prepared solution is ready for use.

Contraindications. Until now, there are no data regarding contraindications to the use of the drug. There are no negative consequences of its use - provided that it is taken in an adequate amount.

However, in any case, caution and moderation should be observed and, just in case, consult a doctor.

What are the disadvantages of diatomite and can it cause harm?

Diatomite is safe and, as a rule, well tolerated, does not have numerous side effects. However, the disadvantages of the application include the following.

Diatomaceous earth as a powerful detoxifier cleanses the body of toxins, but before they are removed from the body, they must be released from the tissues where they accumulated.

This can lead to unpleasant symptoms: headaches, nausea, gastrointestinal upsets, and weakness. In extreme cases, the rapidly released toxins can lead to intoxication of the body, so any detoxification procedures should be well considered.

Drying properties. In the case of diatomite, it is necessary to remember the use of a sufficient amount of liquid (2 liters is the minimum in this case), since it has strong hygroscopic properties. Its use can lead to dehydration and constipation

Of course, many people carry out deworming as prevention. But if you do not know what types of parasites we are dealing with, this event can be ineffective and even dangerous.

Indeed, some varieties have developed protective mechanisms, which include, in particular, the release of toxins in a threatened situation (that is, the appearance of active antiparasitic substances). This can endanger the health of even a person’s life.

Doubtful purity of additives. With the growing popularity of diatomite, the number of companies that introduce it to their range has increased.

Not all of them produce good quality products, and the form of kieselguhr - an amorphous powder - simplifies its falsification due to various additional substances that at least do not bring health benefits, as diatomaceous earth does.

Is it worth it or not to use kieselguhr supplements?

Given the relatively low cost of the drug, it is worth trying out the effect of diatomite on your body. Many people confirm its beneficial effect, and it is difficult to find negative reviews. To many, taking the “earth” inside may seem like a somewhat strange way.

However, it should be understood here that the name of the additive does not fully correspond to its composition. After all, as already mentioned, diatomaceous earth is nothing but algae that have undergone a cementing process.

Given the environmental pollution and the large amount of harmful substances in the foods we consume, cleansing the body should become commonplace.

From time to time we all need to resort to a detoxification process.There are many ways to do this, and among them you can choose home cleansing procedures. One option is diatoms.

Consumers of diatomite emphasize that taking a larger than usual amount of fluid is a necessary requirement that cannot be underestimated and ignored.

The benefits that diatomite brings are very promising and obviously outweigh the potential harm. Therefore, in search of natural remedies for cleaning and healing, this product should be taken into account.

The use of diatomite

Diatomite is a rock that consists of the remains of diatoms. It can also be found under the names mountain flour or kieselguhr. There is food and industrial diatomite, they differ in the concentration of crystals.

Its main component is silicon, and diatomite also includes boron, manganese, iron, calcium, magnesium, copper, titanium. The scope of mountain flour is quite wide.

As an absorbent for cleaning oils and gases. Due to the fact that the structure of diatomite is porous, this helps it to absorb colloidal substances well. This powder also copes with the purification of mineral suspensions, due to its structure formed by the remains of algae, in which there is a low content of clay, calcium and iron oxide.

Diatomite for the manufacture of insulating mastics. Diatomite is in demand in the manufacture of various thermal insulation materials. Mastic with thermal insulation properties is created from mountain flour.

To increase these properties, asbestos, various industrial wastes from slate, and mica scales are also added to kieselguhr. From a finely ground kieselguhr, a paste is made for processing:

1. metal;
2. varnish;
3. marble.

Diatomite for the production of bricks, paper, paints, rubber, plastic. Diatomite is also added to the mixture for the manufacture of light bricks - one of the most convenient materials for laying. In addition, it is used in the manufacture of plastics, matches, paper, paints.

The properties of diatomite in the production of Portland cement are well established, making reinforced concrete, concrete and underwater structures durable. They add it to the composition of mineral wool, which improves its sound and heat insulation properties.

In the manufacture of pastes for polishing metals, marble and glass. Fine powder from diatomite, added to a special polishing paste, has established itself as a polishing agent.

Such a paste can easily polish metal, glass and marble products. This ability is due to the fact that it consists of the smallest particles of shells of already dead algae.

Diatomite as a means to kill various pests. The fields are treated with diatomite, as this is a good tool to prevent pests. For the destruction of fleas, bugs and other pests living in the room and carried by pets.

In addition, kieselguhr is a good remedy against cockroaches and garden ants in the house. A small amount of mountain flour is enough to get rid of them forever, especially since for a person kieselguhr is absolutely harmless.

Diatomite for filtering beer, wine and wine juices. Using this product, filters are made for the production of beer, wine and wine juices.

Diatomite to eliminate odors and as a disinfectant. Diatomite eliminates the smell of compost.Using such a powder to wash the toilet, you can easily get rid of limescale and without expensive funds.

Mountain flour is widely used in all spheres of life and industrial production. Today it is even difficult to imagine how such material can be replaced, because its properties are unique and require further study.

Properties and uses of kieselguhr

Diatomite (or kieselguhr) is a loose, light, sedimentary rock, which mainly consists of siliceous skeletal remains of diatoms. This is a very porous rock with a small particle size and low specific gravity.

Diatoms are members of a large, diverse group of algae that freely drift in the waters of oceans and lakes. At the bottom of these reservoirs and in soils, several types of diatoms live.

Most diatoms are microscopic, but several species are up to two millimeters in length. As a group, diatoms are unique because they are unicellular organisms that produce an outer cell wall made up of silicon dioxide called truncation.

These truncations are very thin and have a fine structure. Almost all diatoms are photosynthesizing and live in water less than 30 feet in depth, where sunlight can still penetrate.

When diatoms die, their siliceous slopes merge. In some areas, frustals are not included in the bottom sediment, because they dissolve when they settle on the surface of the sediment.

If the sediment consists of more than 30% diatom processes by weight, it could be called "diatom silt" or "siliceous silt." These are sediments that pour into a rock known as diatomite.

Use of diatomaceous earth and diatomaceous earth.

In 2013, the five main uses of diatomite in the United States were: filter media (56%), cement additive (15%), fillers (14%), absorbents (13%), and others (2%). The properties of diatomite that make it useful in these cases are listed below:

As well as the small particle size of the diatomaceous earth and the open structure of the crystals, they can effectively work as a particle filter. The pores inside and between the truncations are small enough to trap bacteria, clay particles, and other suspended solids.

Diatomite is used in drinking water treatment plants, swimming pools, breweries, wineries, chemical plants and where juices and syrups are produced.

These liquids are pushed through a layer of moist diatomaceous earth, and suspended particles are trapped because they cannot stack through the pores.

Diatomite is also often used as an additive in cement production.

High-quality diatomite contains more than 80% silicon dioxide, and it is added to the cement production process to increase the content of silicon dioxide in the product. Diatomite directly from the mine is crushed and mixed with limestone, slate or other materials used for the manufacture of cement.

The capillary action of liquids on diatomaceous earth is enhanced by small particle sizes, high surface area and high porosity.

These same properties make diatomaceous earth capable of absorbing oils for the skin when used in cosmetic and facial masks. Diatomaceous earth is an absorbent ingredient in some cat droppings. It is also used as a soil tillage to absorb and retain water.

Diatomaceous earth is used as a light inert filler in some manufactured products.

It is added for coloring as a whitening agent and extender; added to plastics as a light filler; used as a filler and non-stick agent in asphalt shingles; It is used as a filler and to increase the adhesion resistance in many rubber products.

Diatomaceous earth is used as a growing medium in hydroponic gardens. It is inert, retains water and has porosity, which allows the soil to breathe. To help grains and other seeds stick together and stay dry.

Diatomaceous earth is an abrasive and absorbent. These properties make it effective in controlling slugs and certain insects. To combat ants, fleas, cockroaches, lice, ticks and ticks indoors, vacuum the infected area and then clean it with a small amount of diatomaceous earth.

Repeat every few weeks until resolved. The slugs can be kept outdoors, trying to fix problems with diatomaceous earth.

Dogs and cats can be treated with food diatomaceous earth (to combat fleas and ticks). Before treating a pet, clean their bedding and carpets in the house, repeat this for several days.

Comb and check the animal daily to remove all fleas and ticks. Then gently massage the animal with diatomaceous earth. Bathe your pet in two or three days with a moisturizing shampoo. After bathing, brush or comb your pet to remove any remaining fleas or ticks.

Repeat dusting and combing every few days. Bathe your pet about once a month with a moisturizing shampoo.

The cost of diatomite depends on its quality, on how it will be used, and on the preparation efforts that have been invested and carried out by the supplier.

The cost of diatomite, which is delivered directly from the mine without processing for use in concrete, is about $ 7 per ton.

High-grade diatomaceous earth that has been crushed, sorted by size and enriched for use in cosmetics, art supplies and DNA extraction markets can cost more than $ 400 per ton.

7 natural insecticides for small farmers who can replace toxic drugs

“Chemistry” in the fields seems indispensable - there was a reason why artificial pest control agents were invented. However, both consumers and farmers would always like to eat products and not worry that you will be poisoned.

So instead of partially helping artificial drugs, you can use the same effective natural substitutes.

Soap solution - a homemade remedy against pests

If in nature there was a cure for all pests at once, then there would be no reason to synthesize artificial drugs. However, artificial substances also did not prove to be a salvation from all problems: if they are used incorrectly, they harm both humans and the environment.

So instead of partially helping artificial drugs, you can use the same effective natural substitutes.

It is also easy to make them yourself: dilute one tablespoon of liquid soap per liter of water and pour into a spray bottle. Only in this case, be sure to take natural soap - so as not to damage the plant and not get the harmful chemical effect that they tried to get rid of.

Diatomaceous earth - a tool that works only in dry weather

Diatomite is the remains of fossilized microbes and algae, crushed into powder. When an insect crawls over it, it turns out the same as if a person was crawling on broken glass - diatomaceous earth shreds pests.

The powder must be sprayed on the surface of the soil around vulnerable plants. But it should be remembered that this tool has a significant drawback: it only works when dry. So it will have to be reapplied every time after rain or watering the beds.

Iron Phosphate - An Organic Remedy for Snails and Slugs

This naturally derived mineral is an active ingredient in organic agents against snails and slugs. The drug is coated with a substance that attracts pests, but the iron inside acts on them like poison.

This form of iron, at least in such small doses, is not harmful to humans, pets or the environment. And it tolerates rain better than diatomaceous earth.

Many other snail exterminators contain a more toxic form of iron, sodium trioxalatoferrate, which is not approved for organic farming, although it is often sold as a natural product. So read the label carefully before buying.

Bt - one-time hit in case of large-scale dominance of pests

Bacillus Thuringiensis or Bt is a soil bacterium that is toxic to many insects, but does not harm people, pets, fish, birds, or other fauna. It is used to combat scoops, hawks and caterpillars that feed on cabbage crops.

But the pests on it quickly develop immunity. So it’s better to use Bt once if there are too many parasites.

Paenibacillus popilliae - spreads over the soil for a long time, but the effect is permanent

A "relative" of Bt, he confronts the Japanese chrysanthemum, whose larvae eat up the roots of the grass, and adults - from vegetables and fruit trees to roses and other ornamental plants.

Paenibacillus popilliae is used only once. After they have sown the soil, it takes several years for the product to spread and provide complete control over the larvae.But the effect of it is constant.

Neem oil - a means for which immunity is not developed in pests

This is a poisonous extract of a tropical Asian tree nim, the drug is sold in garden centers.

Often it needs to be re-sprayed to achieve the effect. But on the other hand, it does not affect beneficial insects, and pests rarely develop immunity against it, as is often the case with most chemical insecticides.

Chamomile is a flying insect repellent that should be used carefully

These plants, often called simply daisies, are some of the most toxic natural insecticides, although their use is permitted in organic farming.

The substance obtained from chamomile kills most insects on contact and is especially effective against flying insects, which are difficult to get by other means. But it will not work against pests that live underground or deep in the crevices of plants where the spray does not penetrate.

But remember one thing: even if the pest is made from a plant, this does not mean that it is non-toxic and completely safe. For example, botanical insecticides such as rotenone or nicotine extract are not only more toxic than chamomile, but in some cases are even considered more toxic than some of the synthetic drugs.

Diatomite garden 1kg

Fine-porous siliceous rocks of diatomaceous earth sediments cemented by opal silicon. Natural soil conditioner, insecticide.

The content of basic substances,%:

• SiO2 (organic silicon) - 74.8 - 88.0, of which 40-45 in amorphous form
• Al2O3 - 3.3-9.7 CaO - 0.6 K2O - 0.96
• Fe2O3 - 2.3-4.8 MgO - 0.6-1.7 Na2O - 0.74

Properties:

Instructions for use

To improve soil quality. Before planting or after harvesting - evenly sprinkle on the surface of the beds at the rate of 150-250g per 1 m2 and dig to the depth of the bayonet shovel.

To control insects:Sprinkle at the base of the plant or in places of accumulation and movement of insects in dry weather.

Shelf life: unlimited. Storage conditions: in a dry place at a temperature of from -35 to +35 ° C.

Diatomite: what is it used for

Diatomite is a sedimentary rock. Its base is the shell of diatoms. Algae built it from silicon, which is dissolved in water. As a result of their death, sedimentary rock was formed at the bottom of the reservoirs. Over time, the deposits of phytoplankton were covered with sedimentary rocks and petrified.

Therefore, diatomite is a natural adsorbent that is able to effectively purify liquids and other substances from harmful impurities.

Diatomite Properties:

Filter elements in the home and industry

High porosity allows to retain harmful impurities - this is due to the use of kieselguhr in cleaning systems. In the chemical industry, kieselguhr is used for filtering from small particles that may pass or clog filter elements from paper.

The food processing industry uses diatomite to filter liquid foods:

1. honey;
2. syrup;
3. Sahara;
4. water.

Diatomite allows to achieve a high degree of purification without changing the taste of the product.

The same is due to the use of kieselguhr for cleaning:

In the food industry

In the US market, diatomite is sold as a dietary supplement. The intake of silicon in the body allows the skin to rejuvenate, and the hair and nails grow strong and without pathologies.

Silicon performs a cleansing function, removing viruses, toxins, pesticides and drugs from the body.

Diatomite also speeds up metabolism. Slowing the metabolism leads to the accumulation of fats in the body, an increase in cholesterol and blood sugar. Diatomite improves the functioning of the body as a whole and positively affects the digestive organs.

In agriculture

Diatomite is not only an adsorbent. The breed contains yeast, which positively affects the digestion of animals. In addition, the calcium contained is required by animals and humans as a building material for bones. Therefore, cattle, and especially birds, diatomaceous earth is added to the feed. It is important for rushing birds to receive a large amount of calcium to form an egg shell.

The use of diatomite in cosmetics

The adsorbing properties of kieselguhr have determined its use in cosmetology. The active substances of the breed penetrate the skin and fill it with nutrients. And from the outside, the dead epidermis is absorbed, the pores are cleaned. Therefore, kieselguhr is often used for:

• masks;
• pilling;
• scrubs.

This allows you to restore the skin and suppress inflammatory processes, heal burns.

Other applications

The properties of diatomite allow its use in many areas than those described above. Due to the whitening properties, kieselguhr is used for the production of paints and varnishes.

Pharmacists add diatomite to their medicines, thereby allowing unused substances to leave the body faster with dead viruses. This speeds up metabolism, cleanses the body, and the patient recovers faster.

Diatomite (from late Lat. Diatomeae - diatoms)

Diatomite (kieselguhr, infusorian soil, mountain flour) is a sedimentary rock, consisting mainly of shells of diatoms. Usually loose or slightly cemented, light gray or yellowish.

The main properties of diatomite (kieselguhr):

1. has a high porosity,
2. adsorption ability,
3. poor heat and sound conductivity,
4. refractoriness and acid resistance.

Diatomite is formed from diatomaceous silt accumulated in the ancient seas and lakes (starting from the Tertiary period and BC).

Diatomite (kieselguhr) is used:

By color, white, gray or pinkish diatomaceous earth is distinguished.

The following types of kieselguhr (diatomite) filters are distinguished:

• classic frame filters;
• horizontal filters;
• candle filters.

In Russia, diatomite began to be mined in the XVIII century. in the Simbirsk province. Currently, in the Ulyanovsk region, a large diatom plant is operating on the basis of the Inzensky deposit, producing heat-insulating bricks and foam diatomite crumbs.

On the territory of the Ulyanovsk region, large deposits of these siliceous rocks have been explored and exploited on an industrial scale.

The main diatomite producer at present is the Diatom Combine, a member of the Diamix group of companies and located in the Ulyanovsk Region (Inza). Address: 432700 Russia, Ulyanovsk, ul. Kuznetsova, 46. Obviously, by contacting this company you can buy diatomite (kieselguhr).

For reference: dynamite is a diatomite impregnated with glycerin.